two women talking at a desk

What do we mean by cognitive load

  • General
  • 01 Oct 2023
classroom practice

This resource comprises a summary of what ‘cognitive load’ is, including an explanation of different types of memory. It is suitable for teachers, learning mentors and SENCOs from Early Years settings, schools and colleges.

The resource can be used to support practitioners to understand what cognitive load is; it can be used to conjunction with our resource ‘Cognitive load and pupils with SEND’ to help understand how we can use cognitive load theory to improve provision for our pupils with SEND.

Using this resource will lead to an increased understanding of cognitive load. You may also use this resource in CPDL activities in your school or setting.

This resource was first published in July 2020 and was last reviewed in October 2023.

Suitable for: SENCO, Teacher

Full access to this resource is available for:


Free

You must be logged in to to get access

LOG IN

You may also be interested in

SEND CPD on Demand Content Guide image [a stock image of a group of people sitting around a table working on notepads]

SEND CPD on Demand Content Guide

  • Webcasts
  • 31 Dec 2025
Free
Webcast
Webinar
,

We’ve designed this subscription with the entire education sector in mind, but to help make your decision, about what content to access first, we have created a content guide.

View resource
Promotional image for nasen Connect

nasen Connect magazine Feature edition 2025

  • Nasen Connect
  • 02 Jul 2025
Free
nasen Connect
nasen Connect 2025

This occupational therapy and sensory support feature edition is packed full of articles to inform, inspire and embed excellent practice throughout your setting.

View resource
twilight talks promo image dark green background with white text that reads twilight talks alongside the nasen logo and a cartoon owl on a branch

Twilight Talk: Oral Language - The Heart of Learning

  • Webcasts
  • 24 Jun 2025
Free
Twilight Talks
,

This session is delivered by Sarah Hearne

View resource